Understanding how to get rid of rodents is crucial because they can spread diseases, contaminate food, and cause structural damage to your home. These pests are not just a nuisance—they pose significant health risks and can compromise the safety of your living environment. Rodents like rats and mice reproduce quickly, making infestations difficult to control if not addressed promptly and effectively.

The most effective way to avoid this damage is by preventing rodents from entering your home in the first place. However, rodent-proofing your home is only the first part of a multi-step approach. If rodents have already infiltrated your home, it's best to contact a rodent exterminator for professional removal.

rodent hiding in hole in foundation

Signs of rodents in your home

Rodents are a common problem in many homes. Being aware of the signs and types of rodents you may encounter can help you understand how to get rid of rodents. These pests can be sneaky, but there are telltale signs of their presence, including:

  • Droppings, often found near food sources or along walls

  • Gnaw marks on furniture, walls, or food packaging

  • Scratching or scurrying noises, particularly at night

  • Nests made of shredded materials like paper or fabric

  • Chewed electrical wires or insulation

A few common rodents homeowners may come across include:

  • House mice: Small, with light brown or gray fur and large ears

  • Norway rats: Larger, with brown or gray fur and a heavy, thick body

  • Roof rats: Sleeker and smaller than Norway rats, with a preference for higher locations

  • Deer mice: Smaller, with white underbellies and a tendency to nest in rural or semi-rural areas

Take the guesswork out of dealing with rodents. Our experienced technicians will identify and address any rodent issues, providing you with a customized rodent control plan that can help keep them out for good. Schedule your inspection today!

Methods to get rid of rodents

Whether you're considering professional rodent exterminators, setting traps, or using baits and poisons, understanding the benefits and limitations of each approach can help you choose the most effective method for rodent removal.

potential entry spot for rodent

Professional exterminators

If you're wondering how to get rid of rodents in your home, a professional exterminator is the best option. They bring expertise, specialized tools, and a comprehensive approach that other rodent control methods lack. Terminix rodent exterminators can accurately identify the extent of the rat or mouse infestation, locate nesting sites, and implement tailored strategies that effectively eliminate rodents. We also offer a rodent and wildlife exclusion service designed to seal every accessible entry point in your home to keep rodents, pests, and wildlife out.

Unlike traps or poisons, which may only address individual rodents or small portions of an infestation, our technicians focus on long-term rodent control solutions. They can help prevent future infestations by addressing the root cause and providing ongoing support and advice.

Rodent traps

Rodent traps are devices that capture or kill rodents, such as rats and mice. They are best for addressing individual rodents or monitoring if rodents are present. Once placed, they require frequent monitoring, which can be time-consuming and challenging for homeowners. Additionally, if traps are not positioned correctly or checked regularly, they can become ineffective or pose risks to pets and children.

Traps also do not address the root cause of the problem, such as entry points or food sources, which means the infestation can quickly return. For these reasons, traps alone are often insufficient for comprehensive rodent control.

Rodent baits and poisons

Rodent baits and poisons are substances designed to attract and kill rodents. These products can pose safety risks, particularly to pets, children, and non-target wildlife if used improperly. Once the rodents consume these baits or poisons, there is a delayed reaction. This means you might not see a reduction in rodent activity immediately, and dead rodents can end up in hard-to-reach places, causing unpleasant odors.

Similar to rodent traps, baits and poisons typically only address individual rodents, not the root cause of the infestation. This means new rodents may continue to invade or reproduce. Baits and poisons can be part of a rodent removal strategy but should be used alongside other professional rodent extermination methods.

Tips to help keep mice and rats away

Prevention is an effective strategy for managing rodents as it tackles the root causes of infestations before they begin. While it's important to know how to get rid of rodents, stopping them from entering your home in the first place is the key to long-term success.

rodent crawling along home foundation

Block entranceways

For effective rodent control, it’s crucial to block all potential entry points to your home that rats and mice could use. Begin by thoroughly inspecting your property for any cracks, crevices, or openings that rodents could access. Seal large gaps around pipes with mesh and then cover them with cement to ensure a sturdy barrier.

With Terminix’s Rodent and Wildlife Exclusion service,1 covered wildlife that is already inside your home will be removed, and any exterior potential entry points will be blocked with Flexi Amour or other pest-proof materials. Flexi Amour is a durable, knitted stainless steel product designed to seal potential pest entry points around your home. It combines flexibility and strength to provide a strong barrier against small rodents and wildlife, ensuring long-term protection against indoor pests.

Prevent exterior access

Trees, weeds, and overgrown vegetation can provide rodents easy access to your home and serve as a food source. Regularly trim trees and ensure no branches touch your house. Remove weeds and keep grass and other vegetation well-maintained at low levels. Store outdoor items, including firewood, at least a few inches off the ground to avoid attracting rodents.

Remove inside attractors

Keeping rodents out of your home starts with reducing the things that attract them. You can make your home less inviting to these pests by tackling common indoor attractors. Here are a few tips that help prevent rodents from being attracted to your home:

  • Keep all food, including pet food, in airtight containers. Avoid leaving food out on countertops or in open storage.

  • Clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Vacuum floors and wipe down countertops regularly to eliminate potential food sources.

  • Reduce clutter, especially in storage areas. Avoid stacking boxes or paper products directly on the floor where rodents can nest.

  • Do not leave pet food out overnight, and clean up any spilled food or water from pet dishes.

When to call the rodent control professionals

Do you suspect you have a rodent problem in your home? Schedule an inspection with Terminix today! Our expert technicians understand how to get rid of rodents and will identify nesting sites, assess the severity of the infestation, and determine the type of rodent involved.

1Limitations Apply. See Plan for details.